A catalog shot of Adirondack folding chairs we make exclusively for a premier American lifestyle brand.

That’s what a great commercial actor friend of mine Boise Thomas said on his recent trip to visit the mill. He said a lot of other insightful things, but that was one of the last I wrote down as my parents and I sat around listening to all he had to say. Boise has booked over a 100 nationwide commercials, including spots for McDonald’s, Canon, Pillsbury, and more – not to mention time spent as a host for a Discovery channel program and M.C. for various festivals. After all that 15+ years experience acting and hosting he, I could tell, has gained much more than simply acting out a pitch for a brand, he knewwhat was selling it. From what I could gather from him ‘the sell’ for us is the heirloom quality solid wood furniture we make, the ‘Made in USA’ small town appeal, and the Motel 6 Tom Bodett-style simple, honest, genuine American business language (read that story here) that has a 3rd generation family-run business like Manchester Wood selling furniture; and I’d have to agree.

‘Made in the USA’ furniture is what we are, right to the bone. My grandfather started a metalworking factory in the basement of his home, shook hands with J.C. Penney (the man), and took off with the country he had fought proudly for in the forefront of everything involving his business. “Create U.S. jobs” was always his thing and what he spoke much about around the dinner table.

‘Made in USA’ for us isn’t just a smart marketing slogan for an upcoming hip brand, it’s the gritty truth of Manchester Wood’s always in ALL ways USA made furniture. I think the Tom Bodett, “We’ll leave the light on for you” aspect will find more light later through some upcoming campaigns, but it can also just as easily be seen now through the blogs we’ve been writing and other materials through my father and grandfather. It’s a homey realism of what we have to offer you. No filler, just the facts, and that’s quality solid wood furniture that’ll be an antique someday. American heirloom classics brought to you new, that’s what we make.

Luke and his dad, Manchester Wood’s President, Ed Eriksen.

I can’t thank Boise enough for a great visit, with a touch of business advice for the family and myself to reflect on. To be proud of what you’re doing is a great feeling, and he sure helped with that. To know “quality always finds a home,” sure let’s me know Manchester Wood: American Made Furniture will always find a home.

Anything you’d like to share with us? On our business and what you’d like to see? Or what you’re feeling proud about doing? Let us know in the comment section below. We’d love to hear from you.